APR extends back-up energy contract

APR Energy has extended a contract to provide approximately 75 MW of back-up energy for California’s Imperial Irrigation District (IID) through 2022.

APR’s fast-track power solutions assist IID in maintaining frequency and providing backup capacity within its 6471 sq. mi. service territory, including all of Imperial County and parts of Riverside and San Diego counties.

APR’s temporary energy solutions for IID include three fully staffed GE TM2500 turbine-based power plants sited within substations in El Centro and Calexico. Each power plant has an output of approximately 25 MW.

“APR’s energy services have played an integral part of IID’s commitment to maintain capacity reserve margins and grid stability during the volatile summer months,” said Henry Martinez, general manager of Imperial Irrigation District. “APR’s unique solutions, such as 24x7 availability and customizable transformation, have allowed our team to ensure our customers have access to stable, affordable energy, when they need it most.”

APR Energy extends partnership with IID in California. (Photo: APR website).

The third largest public power provider in California and the sixth largest utility in the state, Imperial Irrigation District delivers power around the clock to more than 155 000 m that serve roughly 450 000 people in its 6700-mi. energy service territory. As a public utility, the district maintains some of the lowest rates in the state and meets some of the highest reliability standards nation-wide.

IID’s approach with APR secures supplemental energy services at pre-determined prices well ahead of known peak demand periods.

“APR is dedicated to enabling the energy transition and supporting California in its efforts to maintain reliable power while developing longer term forms of cleaner energy,” said Ben Church, CEO, APR Energy. “With increased energy demand and weather volatility across the United States, other utilities should look at the proactive steps IID is taking to ensure energy reliability to its customers.”